Vastu shastra (vāstu śāstra) means science of architecture and construction. Found in Indian subcontinent, these survive as manuals on design, layout, measurements, ground preparation, space arrangement, spatial geometry and other aspects of architecture. Vastu sastras incorporate traditional Hindu and in some cases Buddhist beliefs. The designs are based on integrating architecture with nature and ancient Indian beliefs utilizing perfect geometric patterns (yantra), symmetry and directional alignments.Ancient Vastu Sastras discuss design of Mandir (temples), and include chapters on the principles, design and layout of houses, towns, cities, gardens, roads, water works, shops and other public necessities. While most Vastu shastras describe rules of construction and architecture, a few include chapters on astrology and rituals recommended for buildings.They are also referred to as Vastu veda, Vastu vidya, Thachu shastra, Thatchu shasthra.

Angkor Wat, a World Heritage Site and one of the world's largest Hindu temples. This Cambodian temple deploys the same circles and squares grid architecture as described in ancient Indian Vastu Sastras.